The Chief Judge of Rivers State, Justice Chibuzor Simeon Amadi, has declined to constitute a seven-member judicial panel to investigate allegations of gross misconduct leveled against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy.
Justice Amadi explained that his decision was guided by existing court orders that expressly restrain him from taking such action. According to the Chief Judge, the judiciary is bound by the rule of law and must operate strictly within the confines of valid court directives, regardless of the political or public pressure surrounding the matter.
The request for the establishment of the panel followed allegations of gross misconduct against the governor and his deputy, a process that ordinarily requires the Chief Judge to set up an investigative panel in line with constitutional provisions.
However, Justice Amadi maintained that complying with the request would amount to a violation of subsisting court rulings.
LLegal analysts note that the development underscores the growing legal complexities surrounding the political situation in Rivers State, as well as the critical role of the judiciary in maintaining constitutional order. Until the restraining court orders are vacated or overturned, the Chief Judge is legally unable to proceed with the constitution of the panel.
The decision has further intensified debates over the ongoing political crisis in the state, with stakeholders closely watching the next legal and constitutional steps that may emerge.